Landmark anniversary for Cotleigh Brewery

FORTY years ago this year, in 1979, Cotleigh Brewery in Wiveliscombe started its brewing story in the stables at Cotleigh Farmhouse in Washfield, near Tiverton.

Soon after, Cotleigh moved to its current home in Wiveliscombe where it was run by John Aries for the next 20 years.

Current owner Stephen Heptinstall took the helm in 2002, a role he has enjoyed for more than 16 years.

Stephen said: “There have been many changes over the last 16 years in the brewing industry with a huge influx of new breweries, growing from 400 to 2,000 nationally with some of the best emerging in the South -West of England.

“Cotleigh Brewery is thriving in the new and competitive market and I believe that this is down to our ethos of producing a quality beer, with a regular flow of new and interesting beers being added to the Cotleigh portfolio.”

Most will recognise its core brands, such as Tawny, Commando Hoofing, Barn Owl and Buzzard, but Amadeus is the first of a new range of ales to celebrate Cotleigh’s 40th year.

Cotleigh beers are sold in pubs and inns right across the UK Including Michelin Star restaurant the Masons Arms at Knowstone in Devon which placed its first Cotleigh order back in 1979.

Cotleigh’s head brewer Guy Baddeley, who has been with the company for 18 years, said: “The secret to our success is simple. If it’s not perfect, it won’t go out! This is a very special year for us and we are delighted that Cotleigh beers are still as popular as ever across the UK”.

Cotleigh Brewery also boasts a visitor centre, shop and runs brewery tours where visitors can experience the art of brewing first-hand.